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Working with Dorchester Living, we developed an ambitious new energy masterplan that combines digital innovation, embedded renewable energy, a clear trajectory towards net-zero for their Heyford Park mixed-use site, set on an old RAF base in Oxfordshire, to house 9,000 dwellings and commercial infrastructure.

At the heart of the energy strategy is an advanced decentralised energy system connecting on-site renewable energy sources including three 900kW wind turbines, over 5MWp of ground-mounted solar, and extensive embedded solar across with large-scale energy storage. Together, these installations will generate more than 50,000MWh annually.

This renewable generation is integrated through a smart micro-grid, a digital platform that co-ordinates and optimises all energy assets on site. The system acts as a Virtual Power Plant using autonomous energy management software to balance supply and demand in real time. It can operate both independently and alongside the national grid, providing enhanced energy resilience and the flexibility to adapt as new clean technologies emerge.

By combining local renewables with digital optimisation and large-scale storage, including utility-scale battery technology and distributed thermal storage to meet a large proportion of its energy demand sustainably onsite. This approach supports a defined carbon reduction pathway, with the target of achieving near net zero by 2035 and the long-term ambition of becoming the UK’s first town self-sufficient in its own renewable energy.

  • Strong leadership and advice based on knowledge and experience
  • The first UK energy surplus town through renewable energy
  • A balance of people and environment, protecting and enhancing biodiversity.

Credit for photography: Dorchester Living

“We have the opportunity at Heyford Park to do something truly pioneering – to become the UK’s first renewable energy surplus town. By generating more energy than we consume and by doing so on site, we can provide cleaner, more reliable and more affordable power for our residents and businesses. This is about building a community that leads by example – sustainable, resilient and fit for the future.”

Paul Silver CEO of Dorchester Living

News

Lift at the Open University

Rolton strengthens vertical transportation division with strategic appointment of senior consultant.

17 August 2026

We are delighted to welcome Krzysztof Mielnik to the Rolton team as senior consultant for vertical transportation (VT).

Krzysztof’s appointment marks the next step in the rapid growth of our recently launched independent Vertical Transportation consultancy. Led by industry expert Tim Piggott, our dedicated VT team provides comprehensive expertise across the entire lifecycle of advanced lift technology from design and construction to commissioning, handover, and ongoing operational support.

Rolton contributes to new 2030 built environment workforce planning report

10 June 2026

Rolton is pleased to have contributed to the newly launched industry report, ‘Built Environment Strategic Workforce Planning for 2030’.

The comprehensive publication stems from the latest INSPIRE event hosted by the Built Environment Futures Assembly (BEFA). This powerful leadership forum was established by the University of the Built Environment (UBE) to break down professional silos, spark collaboration, and drive excellence across engineering, construction, and real estate.